John E. Donald

MORRISVILLE - John Edward Donald, age 87, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2025, at The Manor in Morrisville, the place he called his home.

Born on November 26, 1938, in Graniteville, Vermont, John was the son of the late Fred Clark Donald Sr. and Emily Catherine (King) Donald. He graduated from Spaulding High School in 1957.

As a proud veteran, he dedicated 3 years of service in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Greenland. He took pleasure in sharing his vivid memories of living in Greenland, which became a legendary part of his life story.

Throughout his life, he faced ongoing mental health challenges that shaped where he went to live but never defined who he was. He took pride in honest work and spent many years as a dishwasher in local restaurants. Those who worked alongside him remember his appetite for cheeseburgers, his reliable presence, and his willingness to do whatever needed to be done.

His love for music was definitely his trademark; he never missed an opportunity to belt out a tune. Often heard long before he was seen, bringing joy and happiness to those ears nearby.

He found happiness in the simple things in life— from collecting coins and stamps to sharing the stories of history that spanned every era. In his later years, he became a devoted player to a good game of bingo, and for those who surrounded him, he gave everyone nicknames—each one was a heartfelt sign of affection that you mattered to him. The Boston Red Sox were his team, through good seasons and bad ones, and football was always just as exciting to watch too. It gave him something to cheer for and a joy to share with his fellow fans.

John taught us that life isn’t measured by milestones but by the kindness of those who surround us—by the small acts that make each day brighter and better. Though his song has ended, the melody still lingers on in our hearts. He will be remembered for his singing, his humor, and the nicknames only he could give us. We are better for having known him.

He was predeceased by his parents, three brothers, Andrew Donald, Fred Donald Jr., Winston Suitor, his sister Beverly Alsen, and his nephew Dana Carbonneau.

He is survived by his sister Betty Jean Carbonneau (Barre), two nieces, Linda Greaves (Morrisville), Emily Raspe (Barre), his nephew Gary Carbonneau (Kansas), and many extended family members.

The family wishes to extend their deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Copley House Senior Living, Lamoille Mental Health, Phillip Kiely, MD, Copley Hospital, and all of John’s caregivers at The Manor. Your exceptional care, compassion, and genuine friendship you shared with John brought comfort, dignity, and joy to his life and ours. Your dedication and kindness will always be remembered and cherished by our family.

A celebration of John’s life and his burial will take place in May 2026.

Arrangements are in the care of Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home, 58 Summer St. in Barre.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at www.pruneaupollifuneralhome.com